Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Functional Chewing Training Compared with Standard Treatment in a Population of Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Background: Functional Chewing Training (FuCT) was designed as a holistic approach to improve chewing function by providing postural alignment, sensory and motor training, and food and environmental adjustments. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of FuCT in improving chewing function and the severity of tongue thrust and drooling in children with cerebral palsy as compared with standard treatment. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. The search was performed between October 2021 and January 2022 using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL. The review was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: The initial search yielded 56 articles. After reading the studies in full, 3 articles were chosen based on the inclusion criteria. Included participants were people with PCI; the studies reported a sample size ranging from 40–80 individuals, one study was on a pediatric population, while the others on adults. The selected studies were then evaluated using Jadad and PEDro scales. Conclusion: Our study confirmed the value of FuCT in improving chewing function and the severity of tongue thrust and drooling. Our results may be useful in optimizing appropriate therapeutic management.

Development and Pilot Study of a Pediatric Screening for Feeding and Swallowing Disorders in Infants and Children: The Pediatric Screening–Priority Evaluation Dysphagia (PS–PED)

“…Providing early intervention to reduce the negative outcomes of FSD is well documented in the literature [ 11 , 17 , 18 , 19 ]. According to the European Society for Swallowing Disorders [ 20 ] and the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association (ASHA 2016), screening tools must be the first step when treating patients with dysphagia.…”

The Efficacy of the Global Intensive Feeding Therapy on Feeding and Swallowing Abilities in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study

“…The present investigation provides preliminary evidence of GIFT in children with ASD in terms of chewing performance, behavioral issues, and food acceptance. Children were treated after an interdisciplinary assessment, providing evidence-based approaches for feeding and swallowing disorders [7,32,36,37].…”